Pupils hit by the Edinburgh schools crisis have been offered accommodation at Holyrood by the Scottish Parliament.

The offer follows a similar move by Edinburgh University, with both organisations stepping into the breach as news that 17 schools in the Scottish capital remain closed indefinitely following building safety concerns.

The race to rehouse the students began as concerns grew for older pupils facing critical exams in a few weeks.

It may be another 24 hours before parents will be told what is to happen as thousands remained home.

The council is considering the offers of accommodation.

Below: Oxgangs Primary School was damaged during high winds in January

The Herald: Oxgangs PrimaryOxgangs Primary

Edinburgh City Council leader Andrew Burns said the authority had no option but to close the schools.

He said: "Clearly we have every right to expect these schools to have been built to a good standard and in accordance with industry practice. We now know this isn't the case."

A statement on the council's website said: "The surveys are now focusing on secondary schools as a priority, with S4, S5 and S6 pupils preparing for exams in the coming weeks.

"The affected secondary schools are Gracemount, Craigmount, Firrhill, Drummond and Royal High.

"It is hoped a clear picture on the secondary schools, including alternative arrangements if required, will be available by Tuesday."

A Scottish Parliamentary spokesperson said: “The Scottish Parliament has offered to assist Edinburgh City Council in accommodating displaced schoolchildren.

"The council is currently considering our offer.”

Around 7,600 children are affected after the closures of 10 primaries, five secondaries and two additional support needs schools.

The Edinburgh Schools Partnership (ESP) said on Friday it had concerns about "serious defects" with some the buildings built and managed under a £130 million public-private partnership (PPP) programme.